TRIBUTES have been paid to a well-known former fireman after his car crashed into a bench on a busy Southampton street.

Fun-loving Barry Gravett, who was a familiar face to many people in Shirley, died after the collision on Tuesday.

The 69-year-old’s family have paid tribute to the grandfather of seven, describing him as being “always the life and soul of the party”.

Barry, who was born in Northam and lived in the city for his entire life, was driving his Hyundai IX35 along Shirley High Street with his wife of 43 years Linda. At about 11.30am he suffered a suspected pulmonary embolism behind the wheel and crashed into a bench on the street near to the Morrison’s supermarket and Carphone Warehouse.

He was taken to Southampton General Hospital but died later that day.

As well as serving as a fireman in the city, the father-of-three and great-grandfather of one had enjoyed a varied career in which he was a chef on board Channel Island ferries and cable ships, a Royal Marine and a milkman.

In a message from the family, his daughter, Nicola Matthews said: “Dad was always laughing and joking, always the life and soul of the party.

“He liked to go for his daily coffee with his friends from the café. He was a wonderful man and will be truly missed, sleep tight.

“Dad and Grandad we love you millions.”

Granddaughter Chloe Stanton added: “Everybody knew him, he was a very popular man.”

Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.

A post-mortem will be carried out next week. Funeral arrangements have not been made yet.